CAMDEN, NJ — A tragic and deeply unsettling incident has shaken the Camden community following the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Xyere Brooks, a beloved teenager whose life was cut short under heartbreaking circumstances. Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay and Camden County Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez announced on Tuesday that two juveniles have been officially charged in connection with the shooting, which occurred earlier this month.
The incident unfolded around 12:35 p.m. on June 6, 2025, when officers from the Camden County Police Department responded to an emergency call about a person shot at a residence in the 1500 block of Thorn Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered Xyere Brooks suffering from a gunshot wound inside the home. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment, but despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Preliminary investigations revealed that several juveniles were present in the residence at the time of the shooting. According to law enforcement, a 16-year-old male is believed to have brought the firearm into the home. In a devastating turn of events, a 12-year-old girl allegedly gained access to the weapon and, while handling it recklessly, discharged the firearm, fatally striking Xyere.
The 12-year-old girl now faces serious charges, including Second-Degree Manslaughter and Second-Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. The 16-year-old male has been charged with Second-Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon for his role in bringing the firearm into the residence.
Both juveniles have been released by the court under undisclosed conditions and are scheduled to appear in court on July 23, 2025.
The tragic loss of Xyere Brooks has reverberated throughout Camden, leaving family members, friends, neighbors, and classmates grappling with grief and disbelief. Xyere, described by those who knew him as a bright and kind young man with a promising future, is now being remembered with an outpouring of love and heartbreak.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy that underscores the dangers of unsecured firearms, especially in the hands of minors,” said Prosecutor Grace MacAulay in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Xyere Brooks, and we are committed to ensuring that justice is served.”
Chief Gabriel Rodriguez echoed the sentiments, urging community members to work together to prevent such incidents. “Too many lives are being lost to gun violence,” Rodriguez said. “We must all do our part to protect our youth — that includes safely storing firearms, monitoring access, and educating our children.”
This case once again highlights the critical issue of gun safety and the far-reaching consequences of firearm access among minors. Advocates are calling for stronger preventive measures, including responsible gun storage laws, expanded education efforts, and increased community outreach to address the root causes of youth gun violence.
As the community continues to mourn Xyere’s death, there are growing calls for healing, accountability, and a renewed commitment to protecting the lives of young people across Camden and beyond.
A candlelight vigil in memory of Xyere Brooks is reportedly being organized by local youth groups and community leaders, as Camden comes together in grief and unity.
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